Peter Bjorn And John

It didn’t take long before Peter of Peter Bjorn And John had launched himself into the crowd for a boogie. Nothing and no one was getting in-between this man and the DF. Pack your dancing gumboots for Splendour In The Grass, guys; last night’s Sydney sideshow was a clear indication that they’ll be a very necessary festival accessory.

While the Metro Theatre was far from full on this rainy Wednesday evening, what the crowd lacked in size it more than made up for in enthusiasm.

There were plenty of early arrivals to catch support act Hein Cooper, who made a triumphant return home off the back of touring in Europe. The muso’s catchy riffs teamed with his killer falsetto made for a winning combo, especially on tracks like Rusty and Overflow.

By the time Peter Bjorn And John hit the stage, the crowd were sufficiently riled up. It’s been nine years since this suave Swedish trio (10/10 for the matching outfits guys) touched down in Australia, and by the looks of things, they were more than happy to be back.

With six albums under their belt, Peter Bjorn And John have plenty of high-energy, euphoric indie-pop tunes to choose from. But it’s no real surprise that the Sydney setlist got a hefty serving off their latest offering Breakin’ Point, released just last month.

The boys started with May Seem Macabre, followed by What You Talking About and the album’s title track, Breakin’ Point.

Fresh tracks A Long Goodbye and In This Town got an early run, before It Don’t Move Me off their fourth album Living Thing rather contradictorily, really got the crowd moving.

Old favourite Amsterdam earned a very warm reception before Do Si Do and Nostalgic Love took things up a notch.

Be under no illusions, though, these guys have a whole lot more up their sleeves than a pretty ditty to whistle along to. This was an incredibly tight festival sideshow set with everything from fast and frantic bangers to songs to make you sway.

Dig a Little Deeper off the album Gimme Some was a notable stand out, with Dominos and Object of My Affection rounding out the set.

There’s really no holding back with Peter Bjorn And John, and it’s impossible not to get swept up in their vibes — Peter’s dance moves are simply a joy to behold.

There was a short break for encore before they returned with Hard Sleep. Then it was finally time to pucker up and get your whistle on for Young Folks, before Second Chance and I Know You Don’t Love Me wrapped things up for the night.

For those lucky enough to be Splendouring this weekend — you’d be mad to miss these kids.

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Gallery: Peter Bjorn And John – Metro Theatre, Sydney 20.07.16 / Photos: Olivia Hadisaputra